Learn what to expect from IVF at our leading-edge fertility clinic
The specialists at our Indianapolis fertility center help patients understand what to expect from IVF. Learning what to expect is an important part of preparing for this effective fertility treatment, which helps many patients overcome infertility. Our clinic supports patients through each step of this process, from choosing to use IVF to hopefully taking a positive pregnancy test.
Learn what to expect from IVF
Understanding what to expect from IVF can be a simple process when you break down the steps. These steps support the growth, retrieval and fertilization of eggs, and the transfer of an embryo into the patient’s uterus or the uterus of their gestational surrogate.
Ovulation induction. One of the first steps of IVF involves the patient self-administering ovulation induction medications in the abdomen. These medications cause multiple eggs to grow. At a certain point, the patient takes additional medication to prevent premature ovulation.
Consistent monitoring. We carefully monitor the patient by having them receive regular blood tests and ultrasounds at our clinic. This monitoring allows the doctor to assess the growth of the eggs and how the patient is responding to medications.
Egg retrieval. When the doctor determines the eggs are an ideal size, they instruct the patient to administer a trigger shot. This shot helps the eggs prepare for the retrieval, which occurs 35 to 36 hours later. The egg retrieval is a short, outpatient procedure.
Fertilization. Following the egg retrieval, an embryologist fertilizes the eggs with sperm from the patient’s partner or a sperm donor.
Embryo transfer. After the fertilization of the eggs, the doctor places a resulting embryo into the patient’s uterus or the uterus of their gestational surrogate.
The knowledgeable team at our Indianapolis fertility center helps ensure each in vitro fertilization cycle is as straightforward and successful as possible.
Preparing for an IVF cycle
An important part of learning what to expect from IVF is considering how to prepare for the process. There are many things a person can do to prep their mind and body for this exciting journey to parenthood.
Adopting a healthy diet. Eating a diet high in protein, fruits, vegetables and grains, and low in sugar and fried foods can improve the health of the patient leading up to the IVF cycle.
Exercising. The patient can help manage their weight, lower blood pressure, release endorphins and receive a range of other benefits by regularly engaging in moderate exercise.
Taking prenatal vitamins. A crucial aspect of preparing for IVF and a healthy pregnancy is taking a prenatal vitamin containing 400 micrograms of folic acid.
Abstaining from alcohol and other harmful substances. Cutting out alcohol, cigarettes, drugs and excessive caffeine can make the patient’s body more receptive to in vitro fertilization.
Using stress-relieving techniques. Engaging in practices like meditation, journaling, deep breathing and time with loved ones can reduce stress before, during and after the cycle.
These tips in conjunction with the expertise of our Indianapolis fertility center often result in patients fulfilling the dream of parenthood. Contact us for more information about in vitro fertilization.
